If you’ve noticed your combi boiler struggling to provide consistent heating of hot water this winter, you’re not alone. Many homeowners experience reduced water temperatures when the colder months arrive, but the reasons behind this aren’t always obvious. This blog explores common causes, including the impact of colder incoming water, and offers tips to help you determine if you need a heating engineer. If you’re in Sussex, including Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, or Hassocks, we’re here to help.
Why Does Incoming Cold Water Affect Hot Water?
During winter, the water entering your plumbing system is colder than usual. This drop in temperature means your combi boiler must work harder to heat the water to your desired temperature.
Think of it like heating a pan of water on the hob: the colder the water starts, the longer it takes to heat. However, unlike a hob, your boiler can’t slow down the water flow to compensate. Instead, it heats the water as it flows through, working at maximum capacity. When the incoming water is very cold, the boiler may reach its limit, resulting in lukewarm or fluctuating water temperatures.
How to Identify If Colder Water Is the Problem with your combi boiler and not heating hot water
Before calling an engineer, ask yourself these questions:
When did the issue start?
Was it around the time outdoor temperatures dropped significantly?
Is your boiler otherwise working normally?
No leaks, strange noises, or error codes?
Does slowing the tap improve water temperature?
Reducing the flow gives your boiler more time to heat the water.
If the answers suggest colder weather is the culprit, it’s likely due to incoming cold water, which isn’t a fault with the boiler itself.
Common Hot Water Problems with Combi Boilers in Sussex
If your hot water fluctuates or fails to heat properly all year round, other issues could be at play. Here are some common problems:
1. Scaled or Blocked Heat Exchanger
Mineral buildup (common in hard water areas) or debris can block your heat exchanger, reducing its efficiency. Regular descaling can help prevent this.
2. Shower Mixer Valve Issues
If the issue occurs only in the shower, the problem might be with the mixer valve, which controls the water temperature.
3. Lack of Servicing
Boilers that haven’t been serviced regularly can develop inefficiencies or unnoticed faults. Annual servicing is essential to keep your boiler running efficiently.
4. Diverter Valve Problems
The diverter valve switches your boiler between heating water for your radiators and your taps. If it’s faulty, you may experience no hot water or inconsistent heating.
What Can You Do Before Calling an Engineer?
Try these quick troubleshooting steps before booking a professional:
Check Boiler Settings:
Check if any faults are displayed on the boiler screen.
Ensure your boiler pressure is within the correct range (typically between 1-1.5 bar).
During winter months, try increasing the hot water temperature setting to compensate for colder incoming water.
Check When Your Boiler Was Last Serviced:
If your boiler hasn’t been serviced recently, it could be experiencing reduced efficiency or unnoticed faults.
Try Reducing the Water Flow:
For baths and showers, half-turn taps to slow the flow of water. This gives the boiler more time to heat the water as it passes through.
Note: Thermostatic showers might make this more difficult, but it’s worth a try.
Watch for Problem Signs:
If the issue persists even after increasing water temperature or reducing flow, it could indicate a bigger problem.
Loud or unusual noises from the boiler, rapid increases in flow temperature, or significant fluctuations in water temperature (e.g., shifting between warm, hot, and cold) all suggest the need for a heating engineer.
Why Choose Us for Heating and Boiler Repairs in Sussex?
We specialize in diagnosing and repairing all heating and boiler issues for homes across Sussex, including Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, Hassocks, and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re dealing with fluctuating water temperatures, a blocked heat exchanger, a faulty diverter valve, or an aging boiler that needs replacement, our experienced engineers provide fast, reliable solutions tailored to your needs.
From routine maintenance and servicing to complex repairs, we’re here to ensure your boiler operates efficiently year-round. If your hot water isn’t performing as it should, don’t wait—contact us today for professional boiler repairs and servicing in Sussex.
Book Your Service Today
Don’t let cold showers ruin your winter! Contact us to schedule a repair or inspection with one of our qualified engineers.
If you would rather talk to us, then, please give us a call on 01444 672796 Monday to Friday 08:30 to 16:30, or you can Whatsapp us (This number will only accept whatsapp) 07418 610241
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